Question

question 7
is it possible for homo sapiens and neanderthals to be related even if humans are not the direct descendants of neanderthals?
no, because this would mean there is no connection at all between humans and neanderthals.
yes, because humans and neanderthals share a common ancestor.
no, because the evolution of humans is clearly linear.
yes, but only because humans and neanderthals commonly interbred.

Explanation:

In evolutionary biology, two species can be related if they share a common ancestor. Just because Homo sapiens are not direct descendants of Neanderthals does not mean they are not related. The key is the concept of a common ancestor in the evolutionary tree. Interbreeding (as in the last option) is not the only way to be related, and evolution is not always a simple linear process (eliminating the third option). The first option is incorrect as lack of direct descent doesn't mean no connection.

Answer:

Yes, because humans and Neanderthals share a common ancestor.